Shrewsbury International School India, an ambitious new co-educational boarding school set on a sprawling 150-acre campus in Bhopal, is set to redefine education in the region. Scheduled to welcome its first cohort in August 2025, the school will cater to students aged 11-18, offering a holistic and enriching learning experience for up to 800 pupils.
As the first fully residential campus in South Asia under the prestigious Shrewsbury UK family, this school sets itself apart by providing a globally benchmarked education. Following the English National Curriculum, students will be prepared for Cambridge IGCSE examinations in Years 10 and 11 and A-Level courses in Years 12 and 13. With an 80:20 ratio of international to Indian faculty, Shrewsbury International School India ensures an authentic global learning environment, building on the legacy of its day schools in Thailand, Cambodia, and Hong Kong.
Abhishek Mohan Gupta, Founder and President, Board of Management, Shrewsbury International School India, in a conversation with the Elets News Network (ENN), discusses the rise of international schools in India, the appeal of global curricula, and the vision for shaping the future of education in South Asia.
1. What is driving the growth of international schools in India?
The rise of international schools in India is fueled by a combination of economic, social, and regulatory factors. Increasing disposable incomes have encouraged parents to invest in quality education, while greater awareness about global education standards has led to a demand for holistic curricula that blend tradition and technology.
Regulatory reforms, such as the National Education Policy (2020), have also enhanced the quality of education. Recent policies enabling up to 100% Foreign Direct Investment in the education sector have paved the way for reputed international schools to establish campuses in India. This shift reflects a broader effort to align Indian education with global trends.
2. Why is India an attractive destination for schools like Shrewsbury?
India’s regulatory reforms and growing middle class make it an ideal destination for international schools. The country’s multicultural environment fosters global exposure and creative learning experiences for students from diverse backgrounds.
Bhopal, where Shrewsbury International School India is located, offers a unique opportunity to deliver the British National Curriculum and International Baccalaureate in a clean, central, and culturally rich setting. “The Indian middle class is aware and proactive in seeking international-standard education, making institutions like Shrewsbury highly relevant,” Gupta explains.
3. How does the fully residential model benefit students?
Shrewsbury International School India’s fully residential model offers students a holistic educational experience. The school emphasises “whole-person education,” blending academic rigor with cultural enrichment.
“The FLOREAT philosophy focuses on meeting the individual needs of every learner,” Gupta notes. This approach, combined with a globally benchmarked curriculum, benefits Indian and international students alike.
The school’s 150-acre campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized labs, exclusive sports arenas, and performing arts spaces. A globally diverse faculty further enriches the learning environment with innovative teaching methods.
4. What role does Shrewsbury envision in shaping the future of education in India and South Asia?
Shrewsbury International School India is poised to become a trendsetter in the region’s education sector. Its FLOREAT philosophy emphasizes holistic development, cultural integration, and social responsibility.
This unique model is expected to empower students to thrive in an interconnected world while fostering a collaborative, multicultural community. “This partnership marks a defining moment for Indian education,” Gupta states, envisioning the institution as a beacon of innovation and inclusivity.
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5. How can schools like Shrewsbury attract expatriate families and foreign students?
Shrewsbury International School India offers world-class education that integrates cultural diversity with holistic development, making India an appealing destination for expatriate families.
The school’s central location and supportive community create a conducive environment for learning and personal growth. Gupta believes this initiative will enhance India’s reputation as a global education hub, particularly in central India. “For a nation on a growth trajectory, institutions like Shrewsbury can be transformative,” he concludes.
With its forward-thinking vision and commitment to excellence, Shrewsbury International School India is set to redefine the educational landscape of India and South Asia.
